Maria Byrne (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I wish to raise awareness of a report compiled by Professor Emer Smyth of the ESRI in respect of the transition of students from primary to second level. It found that students who like maths in third and fourth class settle in to secondary school better than students who do not have a love of maths instilled in them. Two thirds of 13 year-old girls and 57% of boys surveyed were found to be happy. The report also showed that it all boiled down to relationships with their teachers, friends and parents. The Department of Education and Skills is now looking at the mindfulness and well-being programme. The findings of this research have to be taken on board in terms of keeping students happy and calm, as well as enhancing their friendships and teaching them how to make new friends and be kind to one another.